Rails, Gallinules & Moorhens Seasons & Limits
Last Updated: Summer 2023
Rails, Gallinules & Moorhens hunting seasons and dates
Regular Season
Statewide
- Sept. 9 - 24, 2023
- Nov. 4 - Dec. 27, 2023
Falconry
Statewide
- Jan. 29 - Feb. 12, 2024
Bag Limits
| Animal | Hunt Type | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| King and Clapper Rails | Regular | 15 birds in the aggregate | 45 birds in the aggregate |
| Falconry | 3 birds in the aggregate | 9 birds in the aggregate | |
| Sora and Virginia Rails | Regular | 25 birds in the aggregate | 75 birds in the aggregate |
| Falconry | 3 birds in the aggregate | 9 birds in the aggregate | |
| Moorhens (Common Gallinules) and Purple Gallinules | Regular | 15 birds in the aggregate | 45 birds in the aggregate |
| Falconry | 3 birds in the aggregate | 9 birds in the aggregate |
Hunting Hours
One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
License Requirements
Hunting License
All migratory game bird hunters must have a valid hunting license.
Texas Migratory Game Bird Stamp Endorsement
A Migratory Game Bird Endorsement is required to hunt any migratory game bird (waterfowl, coot, rail, gallinule, snipe, dove, sandhill crane, and woodcock). A valid Federal Duck Stamp and HIP Certification are also required of waterfowl hunters 16 years of age or older.
Harvest Information Program
When you purchase a hunting license, indicate to the license clerk that you intend to hunt migratory game birds and need to be HIP certified by answering a few simple questions.
